Electrode Cleaning Apparatus for Electro-Hydrodynamic Air Mover Device

This application claims a benefit and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/704,506, filed on Oct. 7, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/741,706, filed on Jan. 3, 2025, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

An electro-hydrodynamic (EHD) air mover device, also known as an ionic fluid mover or ionic air mover, is an electronic device that in a normal operation induces movement of air (or, more generally, fluid - gas or liquid) that surrounds the EHD air mover device, by ionizing some of the surrounding air molecules and utilizing electromagnetic force to create the air flow without the use of mechanically moving components such as a fan or impellor blade.

This air flow can be referred to as an ionic wind. EHD air mover devices can be installed within larger electronic devices to provide a cooling airflow without the noise or vibration typically caused by mechanical air movers like axial fans. An EHD air mover device typically includes one or more emitter electrodes (or anodes), and one or more collector electrodes (or cathodes), where the emitter and collector electrodes are separated by a physical gap. In operation, low-current but high voltage power is applied to the emitter electrode, while the collector electrode is maintained at a lower voltage or even ground state. This voltage may be a positive bias. The voltage applied to the emitter electrode must be of sufficient magnitude to cause ionization of some nearby air molecules, but not so great as to exceed the breakdown voltage of air in the gap between emitter electrode and collector electrode. In this manner, an electrical filed gradient is created between the emitter and collector, which exerts an attractive force on the charged ions and so causes air flow, known as an ionic wind.

Being downstream in the airflow containing electrically charged ions, the collector electrode (e.g., collector electrode plates) of the EHD air mover device is also prone to attract and accumulate charged dust particles that may have been in the air. The operation of the EHD air mover device in dusty conditions can lead to the accumulation of dust on the collector electrode, which can degrade the effectiveness of the collector electrode due to debris covering over time that decrease the amount of the conductive surface of the collector electrode, diminishing its performance.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to an apparatus for cleaning electrodes of an electro-hydrodynamic (EHD) air mover device, i.e., an electrode cleaning apparatus integrated with the EHD air mover device.

In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the electrode cleaning apparatus includes an emitter cleaning sliding scraper and a collector-cleaning slider scraper. In some embodiments, the cleaning scrapers are made of one or more non-conductive materials and placed on or adjacent to an emitter or collector electrode of the EHD air mover device. In some embodiments, the emitter cleaning scraper can be shaped as a bead that includes a hole through which an emitter electrode in the form of a wire passes, so that the cleaning bead is free to slide longitudinally along the wire of the emitter electrode. In some embodiments, the cleaning slider is made of at least one non-conductive material and is placed around or adjacent to a pair of plates of a collector electrode of the EHD air mover device so that the cleaning slider is free to slide longitudinally along the pair of plates of the collector electrode while contacting the collector electrode surface. In some embodiments, the cleaning slider can include a first cleaning slider placed around a first plate of the pair of plates, and a second cleaning slider placed around a second plate of the pair of plates.

During operation of the EHD air mover device, the emitter electrode may be subject to fouling due to the accumulation of debris on the emitter electrode from environmental contaminants. The source of the debris may include dust, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and one or more other contaminants commonly found in air. In addition to simple accumulation of unwanted debris, such as dust, the EHD air mover device may also ionize some of the molecules that include such contaminants, causing the complex molecules to disassemble into smaller more basic molecules. For example, the VOCs may disassemble into nitrogen (N2), Oxygen (O2), water vapor (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2) and/or silicon dioxide (SiO2).

The silicon dioxide is of a particular concern as the silicon dioxide tends to accumulate over time on a surface of the emitter electrode forming a thin amorphous layer initially, followed by crystalline structures, called dendrites, later. Silicon dioxide being insulative reduces the electric field near the emitter wire and thereby reduces the efficiency of the device in ionizing air molecules. The accumulation of dendrites on the surface of the emitter electrode can create irregular projecting points on the emitter electrode, causing a high electrical potential gradient at these locations of the emitter electrode. Additionally, the dendrites can decrease air gap distance between the emitter electrode and the collector electrode in a localized spot. Such dendrites can interfere with, diminish, or make non-uniform the electrical field between the emitter electrode and the collector electrode, such consistent electrical field being necessary to create a desired ionic wind within the EHD air mover device. Additionally, the dendrites can create locations on the emitter electrode where a voltage concentrates to the point where it may exceed the air gap breakdown voltage between the emitter electrode and collector electrode, thus causing an increased incidence of electrical discharge or arcs across the gap between the emitter electrode and the collector electrodes at such locations. When such arcing occurs, the intended operation of the EHD air mover device is momentarily halted.

Mitigating the problem caused by the fouling of the EHD air mover device due to environmental contaminants, particularly the accumulation of dendrites on the emitter electrode and dust on the collector electrode over the operational life of the EHD air mover device, has long been a challenge for creating reliable long service-life EHD air mover devices.

1 FIG. 100 100 100 100 100 illustrates a process of fluid movement (e.g., air movement) in an electro-hydrodynamic (EHD) fluid mover device, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The process of fluid movement in the EHD fluid mover devicecan be achieved without any moving parts of the EHD fluid mover device. The EHD fluid mover device, also known as an ionic fluid mover or ionic air mover, is an electronic device that in a normal operation induces movement of fluid molecules that surround the EHD fluid mover device, typically air but may also be other gases or liquids, utilizing electromagnetic force to create such flow without the use of mechanically moving components. This flow can be referred to as an ionic wind.

1 FIG. 100 105 110 115 100 120 100 105 110 120 105 110 120 105 110 120 110 As shown in, the EHD fluid mover devicemay include an emitter electrode(or anode) and a collector electrode(or cathode) separated by a physical gap, e.g., an air gap. The EHD fluid mover devicemay further include a power supplythat provides an electrical power required for operation of the EHD fluid mover device. By applying a sufficiently large differential voltage between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodevia the power supply, an electrical field may be created between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrode. In one or more embodiments, a positive biased voltage of the power supplyis applied to the emitter electrode(e.g., in the order of 2,500V to 5,000V), while the collector electroderemains neutral or grounded. Alternatively, a negative biased voltage of the power supplymay be applied to the collector electrode.

115 105 110 105 125 115 115 115 105 110 115 115 105 110 100 1 FIG. The electrical field created in the physical gapmay need to be maintained at a sufficiently large magnitude to create an electrical field gradient between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodethat is strong enough to partially ionize surrounding fluid molecules (e.g., air molecules) and create a plasma in a region in a vicinity of the emitter electrode, which is referred to as a corona discharge. The region having the partially ionized fluid molecules that create the corona discharge is illustrated inas an ionization zone. It should be noted that the electrical field created in the physical gapshould be set not to be too large to exceed a dielectric breakdown voltage of the physical gap. Exceeding the dielectric breakdown voltage of the physical gapby the electrical field would cause a sudden electrical current (e.g., arc or spark) between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodedue to a short circuit established across the physical gap. Alternatively or additionally, exceeding the dielectric resistance of the physical gapby the electrical field may cause a flow of electrical current along a surface of any non-conductive structure that is between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrode. This flow of electrical current can be referred to as an electrical creep, and the shortest path distance between any conductors of the EHD fluid mover devicecan be referred to as a creep distance.

125 110 130 110 110 130 135 Ionized molecules (e.g., positively ionized molecules) created in the area of corona discharge (i.e., in the ionization zone) may be accelerated toward the collector electrodevia an electromagnetic force exerted by the electrical field. Hence, an ion drift zonewith the ionized molecules may be created in a vicinity of the collector electrode. Enroute to the collector electrodeand in the ion drift zonethe ionized molecules may collide with surrounding neutral fluid molecules and impart momentum on the neutral molecules, thus creating the net fluid movement which is detected as a pressure head and flow similar to that produced by a mechanical fan, which can be referred to as an ionic wind. The generated ions eventually pass their charge to nearby areas of lower potential or recombine to form neutral gas molecules again.

100 100 105 110 The corona discharge may be positive or negative, determined by the polarity of the voltage applied to each electrode of the EHD fluid mover device, which have different underlying properties associated with their respective predominant electrical bias (i.e., positive, or negative). In one or more embodiments, the EHD fluid mover devicein a normal operation utilizes a large positive voltage applied to the emitter electrode(e.g., shaped as a wire), while the collector electrodeis neutral or ground, and thus creates a positive corona discharge. The positive corona discharge is strongly favored for normal operations of small-factor EHD fluid mover devices intended for use within confined volumes, such as internal to an electronic consumer device to create a cooling airflow. This is because, as compared to negative corona discharge, the positive corona discharge can be created in preferred small geometries and has other advantages such as a lower creation rate of ozone molecules when operating in the air.

105 105 100 105 100 105 The corona discharge can form at locations near the high voltage emitter electrodewhere the electrical field potential gradient is the highest - at sharp points or at regions of small radii on the emitter electrode, such as sharp corners or edges, projecting points, or small diameter wires where the high curvature causes a high potential gradient at these locations. In one or more embodiments, the EHD fluid mover deviceutilizes a small radius wire-type emitter electrode, so as to establish a corona discharge along the length of the wire electrode and thus induce ionic flow along the entire length dimension of the EHD fluid mover devicewhere the emitter electrodeis exposed to a surrounding fluid (e.g., air).

100 115 105 110 110 105 105 110 100 100 105 110 A state of an impeded operation of the EHD fluid mover devicemay occur when the desired ionic flow within the physical gapceases, i.e., when the normal positive ion flow from the emitter electrodeto the collector electrodeis dominated by a sudden electron flow (i.e., electrical current) between the collector electrodeand the emitter electrode, which is known as an arc, spark, or short circuit. During such an arc event, the relative voltage differential between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodecollapses due to the low impedance of an arc, which in turn would stop the coronal discharge, and thus no ionic pressure head or flow is created by the EHD fluid mover deviceduring such arcing state. To allow for the stable control of the electrical field and mitigate the risk of arcing within the EHD air mover device, a certain minimum gap or distance between any portion of the emitter electrodeand a nearest portion of the collector electrodemay need to be maintained.

100 105 125 115 105 110 115 105 110 In the normal operation of the EHD fluid mover device, the electrical field must be maintained at a level strong enough to ionize molecules of the fluid near the emitter electrode(i.e., to form the ionization zone), but below a natural dielectric breakdown voltage of the fluid in the physical gap(e.g., approximately 3 kV/mm for air, or some other limit as determined by the dielectric breakdown of an alternate surrounding fluid), so as not to cause a current discharge or arc between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodesacross the physical gap. Additionally, a minimum gap or distance between any portion of the emitter electrodeand a nearest portion of the collector electrodeneeds to be maintained at a precise distance to allow for the stable control of the electrical field thus mitigating the risk of arcing.

100 105 110 105 110 100 105 105 110 Accordingly, specific factors need to be considered when designing the EHD fluid mover device, including but not limited to: (i) the precise mechanical positioning and physical stability of the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodein relation to each other to maintain the desired distance between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrode, and thus enable predictable operation of the EHD fluid mover devicewithout any arcing; and (ii) the measurement and control of the power being supplied to the emitter electrodeto optimize a strength of the electrical field between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrode, as well as to mitigate and/or respond to changing conditions which can result in a changed likelihood of arcing.

100 105 110 105 110 100 105 110 105 110 100 105 110 100 100 100 120 105 100 As aforementioned, the operation of the EHD fluid mover devicerequires establishing an electrical field gradient between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrode, which can be achieved by applying a large differential voltage between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrode. For example, during the normal operation of the EHD fluid mover device, the emitter electrodecan typically have a voltage applied in the order of 2,500V to 6,000V, while the collector electroderemains neutral or grounded. Due to the strong electrical field between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrode, the normal operation of the EHD fluid mover devicemay require an isolation between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodeto minimize or at least reduce inadvertent short circuits caused by the flow of electrical charge along the shortest path along the outer surface of an otherwise generally non-conductive material between two locations of high differential electrical potential (i.e., electrical creep). Containing the electrical field within a non-conductive housing, and/or robust grounding or shielding of all external conductive components near the EHD fluid mover devicemay be required to eliminate the possibility of imparting a harmful electrical charge onto external device components near the EHD fluid mover device, which can lead to damaging short circuits or arcs between the high-voltage elements of the EHD fluid mover device(e.g., the high-power boost stage of the power supply, or the emitter electrodewhen operating under high voltage) and conductive external components within an electronic device in which the EHD fluid mover deviceis installed.

100 100 100 100 120 105 100 100 120 120 115 105 110 105 110 To minimize or at least reduce a total power consumed by the EHD fluid mover device, so as to enable the EHD fluid mover deviceto operate within a battery-powered electronic device without adversely affecting overall battery life as compared to a typical axial fan, the EHD fluid mover deviceshould consume no more than between 1W and 2W of the total power during the normal operation. At the required voltage and power levels for the normal operation of the EHD fluid mover device, the power supplymay need to be able to provide the voltage to the emitter electrodein the order of 2,500V to 5,000V, and at an electrical current in the order of 10 mA to 40 mA. To operate the EHD fluid mover devicein a typical consumer electronic device, an input power rail to the EHD fluid mover deviceshould be between 5V and 24V. Therefore, the power supplyneeds to be able to accept a low voltage input in the order of 5V to 24V, output a high voltage very low current power, in the order of 2,500V to 5,000V at 60 mA to 30 mA, for a total power that is less than 2W. Additionally, the power supplymay require to be dynamically controlled for adapting to detected rates of arcing caused by changes in the dielectric breakdown level of the air or other surrounding fluid in the physical gap, changes in a distance between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrode, contaminants on the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodethat may cause localized concentration of the electrical field, some other conditions that can lead to arcing, or some combination thereof.

2 FIG. 2 FIG. 202 200 200 205 210 215 215 200 200 200 100 a b illustrates a front viewof an electro-hydrodynamic (EHD) air mover device, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The EHD air mover devicemay include a collector electrode, an emitter electrode, an isolator, and an isolator. The EHD air mover devicemay include one or more additional components not shown in. In general, the EHD air mover devicemay include features for mounting and aligning electrodes to optimize performance, including spring-loaded conductive terminals and structural end caps with ribs and lips for secure placement. The EHD air mover devicemay be an embodiment of the EHD fluid mover device.

205 210 215 215 215 215 205 210 215 215 a b a b a b The collector electrodeand the emitter electrodemay be attached to and held in a preferred position by the isolators,. The isolators,may be in the form of insulating end caps, located at longitudinal ends of the collector electrodeand the emitter electrode. The isolators,may be made of one or more non-conductive materials.

205 210 215 215 215 215 205 210 200 200 205 210 a b a b An air gap and spatial alignment between the collector electrodeand the emitter electrodemay be maintained by the isolators,. Precise positioning of the isolators,may ensure an adequate creep distance and air gap between the collector electrodeand the emitter electrodein order to prevent electrical arcing within the EHD air mover device. In this manner, the corona discharge and resulting ionic flow of the EHD air mover devicecan be more easily maintained at a desired power level without interruption by arcing that could result from the air gap distance between the collector electrodeand the emitter electrodereduced below a threshold distance (e.g., creep distance) at any point in space or time.

3 FIG. 2 FIG. 204 200 215 220 215 220 220 215 220 a a b b a a a. illustrates a bottom viewof the EHD air mover device, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The isolatormay include a slot for a conductive metal terminal(e.g., positive high-voltage terminal, or HV+terminal). As shown in, the isolatormay also include a slot for a conductive metal terminal(e.g., the opposite end attach point for the positive high-voltage terminal, or HV+ terminal). A slot for the conductive metal terminal, may have an access within the isolatorto allow access to an orthogonal surface of the conductive metal terminal

220 210 220 210 205 207 210 207 205 a b The conductive metal terminalmay be utilized to attach one end of the emitter electrode(e.g., wire) via a solder or weld connection, and the conductive metal terminalmay be utilized to attach the other end of the emitter electrodevia another solder or weld connection. At least one end of the collector electrodemay include a metal tabextending in a direction away from the emitter electrode. The metal tabmay be used as an electrical contact point for the collector electrodeto the power supply (e.g., the negative high-voltage, or HV−) and/or to the ground.

4 FIG. 2 3 FIGS.- 206 200 200 225 225 225 205 215 225 205 215 210 210 220 210 220 a b a a b b a b illustrates a detailed viewof components of the EHD air mover device, in accordance with one or more embodiments. In addition to components shown in, the EHD air mover devicemay further include a pair of screws,. The screwmay be used to connect the collector electrodeto the isolator, and the screwmay be used to connect the collector electrodeto the isolator. The emitter electrodemay be implemented as an emitter wire. One longitudinal end of the emitter electrodemay be connected to the conductive metal terminal(e.g., positive high-voltage terminal, or HV+ terminal), and the other longitudinal end of the emitter electrodemay be connected to the conductive metal terminal(e.g., negative high-voltage terminal, or HV− terminal).

4 FIG. 205 205 205 a b. Additionally,shows the collector electrodethat includes a pair of parallel plates, i.e., plates,

220 220 220 220 210 220 220 210 200 210 210 205 210 200 a b a b a b 4 FIG. Each conductive metal terminal,may have a flat surface of a sufficient size. The flat surface of each conductive metal terminal,may be made of one or more conductive materials that facilitate firmly attaching a wire of the emitter electrodeto each conductive metal terminal,via a solder or weld or other connection (not shown in) to hold the wire of the emitter electrodein place and under an appropriate tension when the EHD air mover deviceis assembled. The tension may be sufficient to minimize or at least reduce sagging of the emitter electrodeand/or excess movement of the emitter electrode, which would alter the air gap distance from the collector electrodeto the emitter electrodeand potentially induce arcing within the EHD air mover device.

200 210 205 During the operation of the EHD air mover device, an accumulation of surface contaminants is common, so occasional cleaning may provide for improved operation and lifetime reliability. Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to an electrode cleaning apparatus, and more particularly to a cleaning scraper for removing dust and debris from the emitter electrodeand cleaning sliders for removing dust and debris from the collector electrode. Embodiments of the present disclosure are further directed to various mechanisms to induce cleaning motions of the electrode cleaning apparatus, such as mechanisms that utilize electromagnetic forces and piezoelectric vibrations.

5 FIG. 5 FIG. 200 305 305 305 310 210 305 210 315 210 210 210 205 205 205 215 215 a b a b. illustrates the EHD air mover devicewith an emitter wire cleaner, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The emitter wire cleanermay be implemented as a cleaning bead made of one or more non-conductive materials. The emitter wire cleanermay include a holethrough which the emitter electrode(i.e., wire) passes, such that the emitter wire cleaneris free to slide longitudinally along the emitter electrode(e.g., along the x axis) and scrape off accumulated fouling debris, including but not limited to dust or SiO2 dendrites.shows a portion of the emitter electrodescrapped clean of fouling debris and/or dendrites, a portion of the emitter electrodewith debris and/or dendrite fouling accumulated on a surface of the emitter electrode, the parallel plates,of the collector electrode, and the isolators,

305 305 200 305 210 305 200 200 200 The construction, weight, and dimensions of the emitter wire cleaner(i.e., bead) may have the following properties. The emitter wire cleanermay have a sufficient weight that under the normal usage of an electronic system/electronic device into which the EHD air mover deviceis installed, the emitter wire cleanermay experience motion along the length of the emitter electrode(i.e., along a length of the emitter wire) when the electronic system/electronic device moves, vibrates, rotated or accelerates. The emitter wire cleanermay be constructed of one or more non-conducting materials to reduce the likelihood of short circuiting or arcing among elements of the EHD air mover device, and/or between the EHD air mover deviceand any external components of the electronic system/electronic device into which the EHD air mover devicewould be installed.

310 305 210 305 210 305 210 210 305 210 305 The holeand/or an inner surface of the emitter wire cleanerthrough which the emitter electrodepasses may be large enough to allow the emitter wire cleanerto freely move along the length of the emitter electrode, but not so large as to create a space between the inner surface of the emitter wire cleanerand the emitter electrodethat would prevent creating a sufficient friction to dislodge debris accumulated on the surface of the emitter electrode. External dimensions of the emitter wire cleanermay be small enough so as to prevent inadvertent arcing or short circuiting between the emitter electrodeand any surrounding surface, including maintaining a sufficient creep distance along the surface of the emitter wire cleanerand a gap through the air to prevent emitter-to-collector arcing.

305 305 210 215 215 210 205 215 215 320 320 320 320 305 210 305 215 215 210 205 200 a b a b a b a b a b 5 FIG. No elements may be positioned along the moving path of the emitter wire cleanersuch that the emitter wire cleanerdoes not lodge itself in a fixed position, nor make permanent contact with any obstructions along the length of the intended movement over the wire of the emitter electrode. As aforementioned, the isolators,may be used to attach the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodeand hold them in a desired position relative to each other. As shown in, the isolators,may include cavities,. Each cavity,may be sufficiently large for the emitter wire cleaner(i.e., non-conductive cleaning bead) to reside at either end of the emitter electrode, so that a desired creep distance to prevent a flow of electrical current over the surface of the emitter wire cleanerand the corresponding isolator,is maintained to avoid the flow of electrical current between the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodeduring all phases of the normal operation of the EHD air mover device, e.g., start-up phase, operating phase, and shut-down phase.

200 305 210 305 305 210 210 305 200 During the operation of the electronic system/electronic device into which the EHD air mover deviceis installed, any normal vibration, jostling, rotation, and/or acceleration as a result of normal use, rotation, and transportation may induce a movement of the emitter wire cleanerdue to its independence of linkage to the wire of the emitter electrode. This movement of the emitter wire cleanermay cause the inner portion of the emitter wire cleanerto scrape, or frictionally slide along the inner or outer edge of the emitter electrode, and such contact would serve to slightly agitate the surface of the emitter electrode. The natural action of the movement of the emitter wire cleaneras a result of a bead construction, weighting, shape, and dimensions may provide such an agitation and result in the removal or clearing of accumulated material and restore the original operation of the EHD air mover device.

6 FIG. 6 FIG. 605 610 605 210 605 305 605 210 605 210 210 610 615 605 605 605 210 610 605 210 610 605 210 605 605 210 illustrates an emitter wire cleanerwith a slitfor insertion of the emitter wire cleaneronto the wire of the emitter electrode, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The emitter wire cleanermay be an embodiment of the emitter wire cleaner. To facilitate the installation of the emitter wire cleaneronto the emitter electrode, it is desirable to have a means of affixing the emitter wire cleanerto the emitter electrodewithout having to needle onto the emitter electrodeat initial assembly. To facilitate this, the slitcan be created on an outer surfaceof the emitter wire cleaner(e.g., top portion of the emitter wire cleaner) that allows installation of the emitter wire cleanerby simply placing the emitter electrodethrough the slit, and then twisting the emitter wire cleaneronto the emitter electrode. As shown in, at the first installation step, the slitin the emitter wire cleaneris aligned to the wire of the emitter electrodeand slid up. At the second installation step, the emitter wire cleaneris twisted to align the emitter wire cleanerto the emitter electrodelongitudinally, e.g., along the x axis. The installation process can be performed automatically via an assembly device or can be accomplished manually.

7 FIG. 705 710 705 705 305 705 705 210 705 210 illustrates an emitter wire cleanerand a series of electromagnetsfor initiating a movement of the emitter wire cleaner, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The emitter wire cleanermay be an embodiment of the emitter wire cleaner. A composition of the emitter wire cleanermay be magnetically reactive, i.e., the emitter wire cleanermay include one or more magnetic materials that react to an externally applied magnetic field. This may allow for a periodic ‘push’ and ‘pull’ force applied in the region near the emitter electrodewhich would initiate a motion of the emitter electrode cleaneralong a length of the emitter electrode.

710 715 200 The series of electromagnetsmay be created via traces of wire on a multi-layer printed circuit board (PCB)onto which the EHD air mover deviceis mounted for integration into an electronic device. The series of overlapping PCB traces, which form longitudinal coils can create a ‘fringing effect’ of magnetic lines of force that can repel or attract a properly oriented magnetic element, or in this case, nudge the emitter wire scraper and slider assembly laterally left or right along the surface of the emitter electrode and collector electrode, respectively.

705 710 705 705 210 210 200 A direction of the magnetic field of the one or more magnetic materials of the emitter electrode cleanermay contain a magnetic ‘moment’ along the x axis. The series of low profile, linearly arranged, close proximity electromagnets, formed by wire coils, can be driven to create a magnetic field which can push the emitter wire cleanerin a right-ward or left-ward direction along the x axis, or each direction in succession. Each movement of the emitter wire cleaneracross the length of the emitter electrodecan allow the removal of debris from the emitter electrode, thus extending the normal operation of the EHD air mover device.

8 FIG.A 800 805 200 810 810 805 205 810 810 810 810 805 805 805 810 810 805 805 810 810 805 805 810 810 815 815 810 810 805 805 805 a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b illustrates a cut-away cross-sectional viewof a plate-style collector electrodeof an EHD air mover device (e.g., the EHD air mover device) with cleaning sliders,, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The plate-style collector electrodemay be an embodiment of the collector electrode. The cleaning sliders,may be made of one or more non-conductive materials. Each cleaning slider,may be formed around a corresponding collector plate,of the collector electrode. Each cleaning slider,may utilize a lip at an end portion of the collector plate,to help prevent lifting of the cleaning slider,away from a surface of the collector plate,intended to be cleaned. Each cleaning slider,may include one or more bearings,(e.g., small ball bearings) to help ensure smooth sliding of the cleaning sliders,along a length of the collector electrodeand scraping off accumulated fouling debris from the collector plates,, including but not limited to dust.

810 810 810 810 200 810 810 805 805 810 810 200 200 200 a b a b a b a b a b The construction, weight, and dimensions of each cleaning slider,can be such that it has the following properties. Each cleaning slider,may have a sufficient weight that under the normal usage of an electronic system/electronic device into which the EHD air mover deviceis installed, each cleaning slider,may experience a motion along the length of the collector plate,when the electronic system/electronic device moves, vibrates, rotates or accelerates. Each cleaning slider,may be constructed of one or more non-conducting materials to reduce the likelihood of short circuiting or arcing among elements of the EHD air mover device, and/or between the EHD air mover deviceand any external components of the electronic system/electronic device into which the EHD air mover devicewould be installed.

810 810 805 805 810 810 805 805 810 810 805 805 810 810 810 810 805 805 810 810 807 810 810 807 210 a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b An inner surface of each cleaning slider,through which the corresponding collector plate,passes may be large enough to allow each cleaning slider,to freely move along the length of the corresponding collector plate,, but not so large as to create a space between the inner surface of each cleaning slider,and the corresponding collector plate,that would interfere materially with the movement of the corresponding cleaning slider,and ability of the corresponding cleaning slider,to dislodge dust and debris accumulated on the surface of the corresponding collector plate,. External dimensions of each cleaning slider,may be small enough so as to prevent inadvertent arcing or short circuiting between an emitter electrodeand any surrounding surface, including maintaining a sufficient creep distance along the surface of each cleaning slider,and a gap through the air to prevent emitter-to-collector arcing. The emitter electrodemay be an embodiment of the emitter electrode.

810 810 810 810 805 805 200 215 215 210 205 810 810 805 805 810 810 200 a b a b a b a b a b a b a b 2 4 FIGS.- No elements may be positioned along the moving path of each cleaning slider,such that each cleaning slider,does not lodge itself in a fixed position, nor make permanent contact with any obstructions along the length of the intended movement along the corresponding collector plate,. As aforementioned in relation to, the EHD air mover deviceincludes the isolators,(e.g., isolator caps) with cavities that can be used to attach the emitter electrodeand the collector electrodeand hold them in a desired position relative to each other. A cavity of each isolator cap may be sufficiently large for each cleaning slider,to reside at either end of the corresponding collector plate,, so that a desired creep distance to prevent a flow of electrical current over the surface of each cleaning slider,and the isolator cap is maintained to avoid the flow of electrodes during all phases of operation of the EHD air mover device, e.g., start-up phase, operating phase, and shut-down phase.

8 FIG.B 820 825 200 830 830 830 825 205 830 830 830 830 825 825 825 830 830 825 825 830 830 825 825 830 830 835 835 830 830 825 825 825 a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b a b illustrates a cut-away cross-sectional viewof a plate-style collector electrodeof an EHD air mover device (e.g., the EHD air mover device) with a cleaning slider apparatusincluding cleaning sliders,, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The plate-style collector electrodemay be an embodiment of the collector electrode. The cleaning sliders,may be made of one or more non-conductive materials. Each cleaning slider,may be formed around a corresponding collector plate,of the collector electrode. Each cleaning slider,may utilize a lip of an end portion of the collector plate,to help prevent lifting of each cleaning slider,away from a surface of the collector plate,intended to be cleaned. Each cleaning slider,may include one or more bearings,(e.g., small ball bearings) to help ensure smooth sliding of the cleaning sliders,along a length of the collector electrodeand scraping off accumulated fouling debris from the collector plates,, including but not limited to dust.

830 830 840 840 840 830 830 830 825 825 830 830 825 825 a b a b a b a b a b The cleaning slidermay be connected to the cleaning slidervia a member(or connector). The membermay be made of one or more non-conductive materials. The membermay increase an overall mass of the cleaning slider apparatusand facilitate movements and operations of the cleaning sliders,along both surfaces of the collector plates,as a unit. In this manner, the cleaning sliders,can clean both collector plates,at the same time.

8 FIG.B 830 830 825 825 305 827 827 305 827 210 830 830 827 825 825 830 830 827 825 825 a b a b a b a b a b a b In one or more embodiments, a connector (not shown in) connects the cleaning sliders,on two parallel adjacent collector plates,and an emitter cleaning scraper (e.g., the emitter electrode cleaner) on an emitter electrode. The scraper on the emitter electrodemay be the emitter electrode cleaner, and the emitter electrodemay be an embodiment of the emitter electrode. In such cases, an electrode cleaning apparatus including the collector cleaning sliders,and the emitter cleaning scraper may move along and clean a wire of the emitter electrodeand the collector plates,at the same time. The connector between the emitter cleaning bead and the collector cleaning sliders,may be of a sufficient surface distance to exceed the creep distance between the emitter electrodeand the collector plates,to prevent arcing.

9 FIG.A 900 905 200 910 905 205 910 830 905 905 905 910 910 905 910 905 915 910 910 910 920 910 920 915 920 920 920 920 920 920 910 905 905 905 a b a a b b a b a a b b c d a b c d a b illustrates a cut-away cross-sectional viewof a plate-style collector electrodeof an EHD air mover device (e.g., the EHD air mover device) with a non-conductive cleaning slider apparatus, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The plate-style collector electrodemay be an embodiment of the collector electrode, and the cleaning slider apparatusmay be an embodiment of the cleaning slider apparatus. The plate-style collector electrodemay include a pair of parallel collector plates,. The cleaning slider apparatusmay include a cleaning sliderplaced on the collector plate, a cleaning sliderplaced on the collector plate, and a memberconnecting the cleaning sliderwith the cleaning slider. The cleaning slidermay include a bearing, the cleaning slidermay include a bearing, and the membermay include a pair of bearings,. The bearings,,,may help ensure smooth sliding of the cleaning slider apparatusalong a length of the collector electrodeand scraping off accumulated fouling debris from the collector plates,, including but not limited to dust.

In some embodiments, the emitter electrode is not necessarily implemented as a suspended wire stretched between oppositely disposed mounts. Instead, the emitter electrode may be formed as a conductive edge or elongate conductive trace positioned along an edge of a dielectric mounting isolator surface. In such arrangements, the emitter electrode is supported by and integrated with the isolator structure, presenting an exposed conductive edge to the surrounding airflow path. A cleaning element, such as a scraper or bead, can be shaped to engage the conductive edge profile and remove deposits that accumulate on the emitter surface during operation, while maintaining sufficient dielectric separation from adjacent conductive components to reduce the risk of electrical arcing.

9 FIG.B 935 940 941 940 941 illustrates an embodiment of an emitter electrode cleaning scraperconfigured to remove contaminants from an emitter electrodemounted along the edge of a dielectric mounting isolator surface. In this embodiment, the emitter electrodemay be implemented as a conductive wire or conductive trace fixed to the longitudinal edge of the mounting isolator.

935 940 941 950 935 941 935 940 The emitter scraperpresents a vertical cleaning surface positioned to maintain contact with the emitter electrodeduring longitudinal movement along the mounting structure. A capture featureformed in the scraperengages a corresponding slit or guide 945 on the mounting isolator. This engagement retains the scraperin the correct lateral and vertical position relative to the emitter electrodeand prevents displacement away from the electrode surface during operation.

935 960 935 In some embodiments, the scraperincludes a slider coupling flangeconfigured to mechanically connect to a collector electrode cleaning slider. This coupling allows the emitter scraperand a collector cleaning slider to move together along their respective electrodes while maintaining required electrical separation.

970 935 970 940 In optional embodiments, a permanent magnetis integrated into the scraper. The magnetenables the scraper to be translated laterally along the emitter electrodein response to an electromagnetic field applied by one or more adjacent coils mounted on a printed circuit board. This magnetic actuation may be used independently or in coordination with movement of a collector electrode cleaning slider.

9 FIG.C illustrates an embodiment of a slider and scraper assembly configured for electromagnetic actuation. A slider assembly is positioned to contact and clean a surface of a collector electrode, while a separate scraper element is positioned to clean debris from an emitter wire. The slider and scraper are mechanically coupled in a manner that allows movement of one to induce corresponding movement of the other, yet remain structurally independent so that each maintains appropriate electrical isolation.

The slider contains a permanent magnet embedded in its lower surface. The magnet is positioned adjacent to a printed circuit board (PCB) carrying a set of low-profile traces arranged along the length of the PCB. These traces form multiple overlapping longitudinal electromagnetic coils. When driven, the coils produce a controlled magnetic field in proximity to the embedded magnet, thereby inducing a lateral force on the slider and scraper assembly. This force causes the assembly to travel across the surfaces of the emitter wire and collector elements, scraping or wiping debris from those surfaces to extend operational performance of the EHD air mover device.

9 FIG.D 1 2 3 illustrates an example printed circuit board layout for generating the lateral magnetic field. The PCB is fabricated with conductive traces arranged into multiple coil phases —three phases are shown in the example, although a four-phase embodiment may also be implemented. The coils are printed in longitudinal alignment along the PCB length, with each phase comprising a series of coil segments placed in close proximity to the embedded permanent magnet of the slider assembly. The three coil phases (Phase, Phase, and Phase) are driven sequentially in succession to produce a moving magnetic field. This phased actuation results in a corresponding movement of the magnetically responsive slider and scraper assembly along the electrodes. The driving circuit energizes each phase in turn, creating a traveling electromagnetic field that pushes or pulls the permanent magnet, and thereby moves the assembly rightward or leftward along the electrode axis.

9 FIG.E 9 FIG.D 1 2 3 3 illustrates one example timing diagram for driving the three-phase electromagnetic coils of. Each coil phase is energized for approximately 25 milliseconds before the next phase is activated. The phases are fired sequentially in the order Phase→Phase→Phase, with no delay between transitions, resulting in a complete cycle time of approximately 75 milliseconds. After Phaseis energized, the firing sequence repeats continuously. This uninterrupted advancement of coil activation creates a smooth, continuous translation of the slider and scraper assembly along the electrodes. Reversing the activation order allows movement in the opposite direction. Each complete translation of the assembly along the emitter wire and collector plates performs a cleaning action that removes accumulated debris and thereby prolongs operational performance.

1 2 3 3 2 In some embodiments, the driving signals applied to the coil phases can be modified to control both the direction and the speed of movement of the magnetically responsive slider and scraper assembly. By changing the sequence of coil phase energization—such as reversing the order from Phase, Phase, Phaseto Phase, Phase, Phase 1—the traveling electromagnetic field is generated in the opposite direction along the PCB length, causing the permanent magnet within the slider assembly to move in the opposite longitudinal direction along the electrode axis. The speed of movement can be adjusted by altering the timing interval or frequency at which the coil phases are energized, allowing electronic control over cleaning translation rate. This capability enables bi-directional and variable-speed motion without requiring mechanical re-orientation or manual adjustment of the cleaning apparatus.

9 9 FIG.C-E It should be understood that the configurations and operational sequences illustrated inare presented as examples only. The particular arrangement of the slider, scraper, permanent magnet, coil phases, and timing sequence represents one possible implementation of an electromagnetic motivator system, and numerous variations are possible. For instance, the number of coil phases, coil geometry, magnet type or placement, driving sequence, or coupling between scraper and slider may be altered to suit specific design requirements, manufacturing constraints, or performance objectives. Such modifications and alternative implementations fall within the scope of the concepts described herein.

200 200 200 200 Embodiments of the present disclosure are further directed to an adaptive output power control for the EHD air mover device. The adaptive output power control may include a telemetry and control system for monitoring and dynamically adjusting the power supply for the EHD air mover device. The adaptive output power control may involve detection of the emitter electrode fouling and operational inefficiencies in relation to the EHD air mover device. Adaptive power adjustments may be applied to maintain a preferred performance of the EHD air mover devicewhile minimizing or at least reducing arcing. The adaptive output power control may further involve gradual power ramp-up for enhanced system longevity and stability.

10 FIG. 10 FIG. 1000 200 1000 1005 1010 1015 1000 1000 illustrates a block diagram of a power control systemfor adaptive output power control at the EHD air mover device, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The power control systemmay include a telemetry subsystem, a control subsystem, and a triggering mechanism subsystem. The power control systemmay include one or more additional components not shown in. Alternatively, one or more subsystems of the power control systemmay be bypassed or may be combined within a single subsystem.

1005 200 200 1005 200 200 210 200 1005 200 210 205 210 205 The telemetry subsystemmay include integrated sensors for measuring key electrical properties of the EHD air mover deviceand providing real-time feedback on performance of the EHD air mover device. The telemetry subsystemmay detect emitter electrode fouling and operational inefficiencies of the EHD air mover deviceby monitoring electrical parameters of the EHD air mover device. Over time, the emitter electrodemay accumulate fouling, such as dust or silicon dioxide dendrites, which can reduce efficiency of the EHD air mover deviceand lead to arcing. The telemetry subsystemmay continuously monitor electrical properties of the EHD air mover device, such as voltage, current, and ion current across the emitter electrodeand/or the collector electrode. Changes in electrical characteristics (e.g., increased resistance or reduced ion current) may be used as indicators of fouling, such as dendrite growth or particle accumulation on the emitter electrodeand/or the collector electrode.

1005 200 210 200 200 1005 1000 210 200 1005 200 200 In one or more embodiments, the telemetry subsystemcontinuously monitors one or more electrical parameters of the EHD air mover device, such as a high-voltage output (ACout) from the emitter electrode, current flow and efficiency metrics calculated by comparing input power (DCin) applied to the EHD air mover devicewith output power of the EHD air mover device, sudden current spikes indicative of arcing, gradual declines in operational efficiency correlated with fouling, some other electrical parameters, or some combination thereof. Data collected by the telemetry subsystemmay allow the power control systemto infer the operational state of the emitter electrodeand overall performance health of the EHD air mover device, enabling early detection of performance degradation. In one or more other embodiments, the telemetry subsystemcan communicate with a host device into which the EHD air mover deviceis integrated to report the performance level of the EHD air mover device.

1010 1007 1005 200 1010 1010 1012 200 200 1010 200 1005 1010 1012 200 The control subsystemmay include a controller (e.g., control algorithm of software-based controller) that analyzes telemetry dataobtained by the telemetry subsystemand adjusts the power supply output to maintain desired operating conditions of the EHD air mover device. In one or more embodiments, the control subsystemperforms the adaptive power adjustments via dynamic power control. The control subsystemmay dynamically adjust a power signalthat controls the power supply of the EHD air mover deviceto compensate for inefficiencies caused by fouling or other operational changes. This may ensure consistent airflow and pressure (P and Q) output at the EHD air mover device. The dynamic power control performed by the control subsystemmay also prevent arcing at the EHD air mover device. Based on voltage and current patterns monitored by the telemetry subsystem, the control subsystemmay generate the power signalthat preemptively reduces power or modifies electrical parameters of the EHD air mover deviceto avoid conditions that could lead to arcing.

1010 200 1010 1012 200 200 200 200 200 1010 200 200 200 The control subsystemmay further perform gradual power ramp-up for achieving the start-up optimization of the EHD air mover device. The control subsystemmay generate the power signalthat increases the power supply of the EHD air mover devicegradually during the start-up of the EHD air mover device, allowing the EHD air mover deviceto stabilize before a full operating voltage is reached. This may reduce mechanical and electrical stress on components of the EHD air mover device, leading to extending the lifespan of the EHD air mover device. By performing the gradual power ramp-up, the control subsystemmay achieve operational stability of the EHD air mover device. For example, by performing the gradual power ramp-up, sudden power fluctuations at the EHD air mover devicemay be avoided, ensuring smoother operation and better reliability of the EHD air mover device.

1010 200 1010 210 1005 1010 200 1005 1010 1012 210 200 1010 200 210 200 200 1010 200 1010 200 An objective of the adaptive power adjustments performed by the control subsystemmay be to maintain optimal performance of the EHD air mover deviceand airflow while avoiding electrical breakdowns, e.g., arcing. In one or more embodiments, the control subsystemperforms a dynamic voltage adjustment by modifying the voltage and current delivered to the emitter electrodebased on real-time efficiency measurements, e.g., obtained by the telemetry subsystem. The dynamic voltage adjustment may compensate for performance drops caused by fouling. In one or more other embodiments, the control subsystemmitigates arcing at the EHD air mover device. For example, if the arcing is detected based on data collected by the telemetry subsystem, the control subsystemmay generate the power signalthat temporarily reduces power or shuts down a supply of power to the emitter electrodeto allow the breakdown to subside, preventing damage of the EHD air mover device. By optimizing the power delivery, the control subsystemmay reduce stress on electrical components of the EHD air mover device, thus extending operational life of the emitter electrodeand of the EHD air mover device. By adapting the power supply operation to a current state of the EHD air mover device, the control subsystemmay minimize or at least reduce energy waste and ensure consistent performance of the EHD air mover device, i.e., the control subsystemmay facilitate energy efficiency of the EHD air mover device.

1010 200 200 1010 1012 210 210 200 1010 200 An objective of the gradual power ramp-up performed by the control subsystemmay be to enhance system stability, reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI), and minimize or at least reduce stress on components of the EHD air mover deviceduring the start-up. When the air mover deviceis turned on, the control subsystemmay generate the power signalthat gradually increases the power sent to the emitter electrodeusing pulse width modulation (PWM) or some other technique(s). This controlled power ramp-up may prevent sudden high-voltage surges that could lead to arcing or destabilizing of the corona discharge in a vicinity of the emitter electrode. The gradual power ramp-up may also reduce the risk of EMI, which can interfere with nearby electronic components of an electronic device into which the EHD air mover deviceis integrated. In one or more embodiments, the control subsystemreceives operational commands from the electronic device, e.g., for adjusting airflow and/or entering a power-saving mode at the EHD air mover device.

1015 200 1005 1007 1015 1017 200 1017 200 1007 1005 1015 1017 200 The triggering mechanism subsystemmay initiate cleaning or general maintenance of the EHD air mover device. When fouling reaches critical levels (e.g., as detected by the telemetry subsystembased on the telemetry data), the triggering mechanism subsystemmay generate a triggering signalthat initiates a cleaning mechanism at the EHD air mover device, e.g., a movement of an emitter cleaning bead/scraper and/or cleaning sliders. Alternatively, the triggering signalmay be used to notify operators for manual intervention at the EHD air mover device. Based on efficiency metrics or arc counts available based on the telemetry datacollected by the telemetry subsystem, the triggering mechanism subsystemmay generate the triggering signalfor activating cleaning mechanisms at the EHD air mover device(e.g., the movement of the emitter cleaning bead and/or the cleaning sliders) when fouling reaches a critical threshold.

1005 1020 200 200 200 1020 1005 210 1005 205 200 In one or more embodiments, the telemetry subsystemincludes a detection circuitthat monitors one or more parameters of the EHD air mover device, such as high-voltage output (ACout), the efficiency ratio between input power (DCin) and output power, one or more other parameters, or some combination thereof. Data indicating gradual declines in efficiency of the EHD air mover deviceand an increased rate of arcs at the EHD air mover device(e.g., as detected by the detection circuit) may be used by the telemetry subsystemto determine a level of fouling of the emitter electrode, primarily caused by silicon dioxide dendrites. The telemetry subsystemmay also detect dust accumulation on the collector electrodeand other indicators of reduced performance of the EHD air mover device.

1005 1010 210 200 1005 1015 Based on the one or more parameters detected by the telemetry subsystem, the control subsystemmay adjust the power sent to the emitter electrode, e.g., to compensate for performance drops due to fouling and/or avoid excessive power that could lead to arcing or electrical breakdowns at the EHD air mover device. When fouling reaches a critical level (e.g., as detected by the telemetry subsystem), the triggering mechanism subsystemmay trigger cleaning mechanisms, such as an emitter cleaning bead and/or collector cleaning sliders, to restore emitter electrode efficiency and/or collector electrode efficiency.

200 1005 1010 1010 200 200 The power supply of the EHD air mover devicemay include three main stages, i.e., a low-power stage, a high-power stage, and a telemetry and control stage. The low-power stage may convert low-voltage DC input (e.g., 5-24 V) into medium-voltage AC output using, e.g., a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) for PWM. The high-power stage may further amplify the medium-voltage AC signal to the high-voltage DC (e.g., 3000-5000 V) via, e.g., a diode-capacitor ladder. The telemetry and control stage may include the telemetry subsystemand the control subsystem. The telemetry and control stage may monitor, communicate, and control the power supply operation using, e.g., firmware on a microcontroller. Upon receiving a power-on signal, the control subsystemmay ramp up power gradually using PWM to, e.g., prevent arcing and instability during startup, reduce EMI, and minimize or at least reduce stress on electrical components of the EHD air mover device, enhancing the lifetime of the EHD air mover device.

1000 200 1000 200 1000 1010 The power control systemmay communicate with the electronic device into which the EHD air mover deviceenabling commands to adjust “fan” levels based on cooling requirements of the electronic device. Thus, the power control systemmay thus facilitate feedback in relation to the system performance and operational state of the EHD air mover device. The power control systemmay further provide (e.g., via the control subsystem) adjustments to PWM levels for precise control of power output.

1000 200 1000 1005 1010 200 200 1005 1020 200 The power control systemmay further provide for real-time response to operational changes at the EHD air mover device. The power control systemmay detect (e.g., via the telemetry subsystem) rapid changes in high-voltage signals, such as spikes caused by arcing, and respond (e.g., via the control subsystem) by temporarily shutting off or reducing power supply to stabilize the operation of the EHD air mover device. Continuous monitoring of operational parameters of the EHD air mover device(e.g., via the telemetry subsystemand the detection circuit) may allow for dynamic power adjustments to optimize efficiency and maintain a preferred level of performance of the EHD air mover device.

200 1000 1000 200 1000 1010 200 200 To maintain the preferred level of performance of the EHD air mover device, the power control systemmay ensure consistent airflow and pressure output by adapting to changing conditions such as fouling or variable input voltages. The power control systemmay also facilitate reduction of downtime of the EHD air mover deviceand/or maintenance needs caused by performance degradation. To prevent arcing, the power control systemmay proactively adjust (e.g., via the control subsystem) power supply parameters to prevent destructive arcing events, which can damage components of the EHD air mover deviceand reduce reliability of the EHD air mover device.

1000 210 200 200 1000 200 1000 200 200 200 By applying the gradual power ramp-up and intelligent power management, the power control systemmay reduce wear and tear on the emitter electrodeand other components of the EHD air mover device, thus enhancing durability of the EHD air mover device. By compensating for fouling and arcing, the power control systemmay prolong the operational life of the EHD air mover device. The power control systemmay also optimize power usage, ensuring energy-efficient operation of the EHD air mover device, as well as reduction in unnecessary power consumption at the EHD air mover device, thus ensuring operational efficiency of the EHD air mover device.

11 FIG. 11 FIG. 11 FIG. 200 1000 is a flowchart for a method of adaptive output power control for the EHD air mover device, in accordance with one or more embodiments. Alternative embodiments may include more, fewer, or different steps from those illustrated in, and the steps may be performed in a different order from that illustrated in. These steps may be performed automatically by a power control system, such as the power control system.

1105 1005 200 The power control system collects, via a telemetry subsystem of the power control system (e.g., the telemetry subsystem), telemetry data by monitoring one or more electrical parameters of an EHD air mover device, e.g., the EHD air mover device.

1110 1010 1015 The power control system providesthe telemetry data to a control subsystem of the power control system (e.g., the control subsystem) and to a triggering mechanism subsystem of the power control system (e.g., the triggering mechanism subsystem).

1115 120 The power control system adjusts, by the control subsystem and based on the telemetry data, a power supply (e.g., the power supply) for supplying power to the EHD air mover device.

1120 305 810 810 830 910 a b The power control system initiates, by the triggering mechanism subsystem and based on the telemetry data, a cleaning mechanism at the EHD air mover device. The power control system may initiate the cleaning mechanism by initiating a movement of an emitter cleaning bead (e.g., the emitter wire cleaner) and/or a movement of cleaning sliders (e.g., the cleaning sliders,, the cleaning slider apparatus, or the cleaning slider apparatus).

200 1200 1200 1204 1205 1210 1215 1220 1204 1210 1205 1210 1215 200 210 1220 1200 1200 1200 12 FIG. 12 FIG. Embodiments of the present disclosure are further directed to an adaptive multi-stage power input and control for the EHD air mover device.illustrates a block diagram of a power input control system, in accordance with one or more embodiments. The power input control systemmay include a variable resistor, a power control stage, a power boost stage, a voltage multiplier stage, and a mode circuit. The variable resistormay control a level of voltage input into the power boost stage. The power control stagemay include a buck converter or some other circuit for regulating an input voltage variability. The power boost stagemay include a fixed-gain boost converter or some other circuit for intermediate power conversion. The voltage multiplier stagemay include a voltage multiplier circuit for delivering a high voltage to the EHD air mover device(e.g., to the emitter electrode). The mode circuitmay control a switch S (e.g., MOSFET transistor) and configure the power input control systemto operate either in a two-stage mode or a three-stage mode. The power input control systemmay include one or more additional components not shown in. Alternatively, one or more stages of the power input control systemmay be bypassed or may be combined within a single stage.

1220 1222 1200 1205 1206 1204 1202 1210 1200 1202 1210 1212 1215 1212 1217 1217 200 210 1217 1200 In one or more embodiments, the mode circuitgenerates a signalthat closes the switch S (e.g., turns on the MOSFET transistor) and configures the power input control systemto operate in the two-stage mode, i.e., as a two-stage high voltage power supply system. In such cases, the power control stageis bypassed, and an input voltageprovided via the variable resistorrepresenting a ratio of an input voltagemay be directly provided to the power boost stage. The power input control systemmay utilize a variable DC power source to generate the input voltage. For example, the variable DC power source may be a chargeable battery that has an unknown voltage level with a range of, e.g., 10V to 20V, 20V to 40V, or 9V to 50V. The power boost stagemay be a PWM-controlled boost stage producing a voltagethat is an AC voltage of, e.g., 400-650V p-p (peak-to-peak). The voltage multiplier stagemay convert the voltage(e.g., 600V AC voltage) into a voltagethat is a DC voltage of, e.g., 5000V. The voltagemay be applied to one or more components of the EHD air mover device, such as the emitter electrode. The voltagemay represent a high voltage DC output of the power input control system.

12 FIG. 1200 200 200 1215 1217 200 200 1215 1219 200 1215 1217 1219 200 1206 1204 1212 1215 1221 1215 1204 1215 1217 1217 200 As shown in, an output load of the power input control systemis the EHD air mover device, which has a variable resistance load based on environmental conditions. During the operation of the EHD air mover device, the voltage multiplier stagemay produce the voltage, i.e., a high voltage DC output that is input to the EHD air mover device, whereas a feedback line from the EHD air mover deviceis also connected to the voltage multiplier stageproviding a DC voltagegenerated by the EHD air mover device. The voltage multiplier stagemay compare the voltageto the voltageto determine the voltage level and power level being delivered to the EHD air mover device. Once this power level is determined, a conversion ratio can be determined to set the input voltageby setting the variable resistor, which in turn sets the voltageas a precision input voltage for the voltage multiplier stage. Information about the conversion ratio may be carried by a conversion ratio signalthat is fed back from the voltage multiplier stageto the variable resistor. In such cases, the voltage multiplier stagemay generate the voltage(i.e., output high voltage) such that a level of the voltagedelivers the desired output voltage and power to the EHD air mover device.

13 FIG.A 13 FIG.A 13 FIG.A 200 1200 is a flowchart for a method of a two-stage power input and control for the EHD air mover device, in accordance with one or more embodiments. Alternative embodiments may include more, fewer, or different steps from those illustrated in, and the steps may be performed in a different order from that illustrated in. These steps may be performed automatically by a power input control system, such as the power input control system.

1305 1206 1210 The power input control system providesan input voltage (e.g., the input voltage) to a power boost stage (e.g., the power boost stage) of the power input control system. The input voltage may be a DC voltage of, e.g., 5V.

1310 1210 The power input control system generates(e.g., via the power boost stage) an intermediate voltage using the input voltage. The intermediate voltage may be an AC voltage of, e.g., 400-650V peak-to-peak.

1315 1215 The power input control system providesthe intermediate voltage to a voltage multiplier stage of the power input control system, e.g., the voltage multiplier stage.

1320 1215 The power input control system generates(e.g., via the voltage multiplier stage) an output voltage using the intermediate voltage. The output voltage may be a DC voltage of, e.g., 5000V.

1325 200 210 The power input control system providesthe output voltage to an EHD air mover device, e.g., the EHD air mover deviceand the emitter electrode.

12 FIG. 1220 1222 1200 1204 1206 1205 1202 1205 1206 1205 1206 1207 200 1210 1207 1212 1215 1212 1217 Referring back to, in one or more embodiments, the mode circuitgenerates the signalthat opens the switch S (e.g., turns off the MOSFET transistor) and configures the power input control systemto operate in the three-stage mode, i.e., as a three-stage high voltage power supply system. In such cases, the variable resistormay be also shorted, and the input voltageprovided to the power control stagemay correspond to the input voltage. The power control stagemay thus receive the input voltage(e.g., DC battery voltage) that is a variable DC voltage (e.g., with a range of 10V to 20V) based on the discharge level of the system battery. The power control stagemay convert the input voltageto a DC voltageand a power level needed to drive the EHD air mover devicewith a required power level. The power boost stagemay be a fixed frequency boost stage that converts the DC voltageinto an AC output voltageof, e.g., 400-650V peak-to-peak. The voltage multiplier stagemay include a multiplier circuit that converts the AC voltage(e.g., 600V AC) into the output high voltage(e.g., approximately 5000V DC).

1200 200 1219 1215 1217 1219 1215 1223 1205 1205 1223 1205 1207 The output load of the power input control systemis the EHD air mover device, which has a variable resistance load based on environmental conditions. Power to the output load may be monitored via the voltagefed back to the voltage multiplier stage. Based on a comparison between the voltageand the voltage, the voltage multiplier stagemay generate a driving signalthat is fed back to the power control stage, e.g., to the buck converter of the power control stage. The driving signalmay drive the buck converter of the power control stageto generate the voltagehaving a desired voltage level.

13 FIG.B 13 FIG.B 13 FIG.B 200 1200 is a flowchart for a method of a three-stage power input and control for the EHD air mover device, in accordance with one or more embodiments. Alternative embodiments may include more, fewer, or different steps from those illustrated in, and the steps may be performed in a different order from that illustrated in. These steps may be performed automatically by a power input control system, such as the power input control system.

1355 1202 1205 The power input control system providesan input voltage (e.g., the input voltage) to a power control stage (e.g., the power control stage) of the power input control system. The input voltage may be a battery input DC voltage having a range between 10V and 20V.

1360 1205 The power input control system generates(e.g., via the power control stage) a first intermediate voltage using the input voltage. The first intermediate voltage may be a DC voltage of a predefined level.

1365 1210 The power input control system providesthe first intermediate voltage to a power boost stage of the power input control system, e.g., the power boost stage.

1370 1210 The power input control system generates(e.g., via the power boost stage) a second intermediate voltage using the first intermediate voltage. The second intermediate voltage may be an AC voltage of, e.g., 400-650V peak-to-peak.

1375 1215 The power input control system providesthe second intermediate voltage to a voltage multiplier stage of the power input control system, e.g., the voltage multiplier stage.

1380 1215 The power input control system generates(e.g., via the voltage multiplier stage) an output voltage using the second intermediate voltage. The output voltage may be a DC voltage of, e.g., 5000V.

1385 200 210 The power input control system providesthe output voltage to an EHD air mover device, e.g., the EHD air mover deviceand the emitter electrode.

In some embodiments, the electrode cleaning apparatus include cleaning actuators configured to remove fouling and contaminants from both emitter and collector electrodes in the presence of high electric fields. The cleaning actuator integrates electrode-cleaning components with an actuation system that operates under high-voltage conditions while minimizing electrical breakdown, arcing, and electrical creep. In some embodiments, the cleaning actuator includes an emitter cleaner, a collector cleaner, and an actuation system adapted for high-field operation. The actuator may be implemented in different embodiments including mechanical, electromagnetic, pneumatic, and acoustic implementations. The actuator is configured to provide effective contaminant removal while maintaining dielectric integrity, suppressing arcing, and reducing creep phenomena.

In some embodiments, for emitter electrode cleaning, an emitter electrode cleaner is configured to shear dendrites, fibrous contaminants, and other debris from the emitter electrode. The emitter cleaner applies mechanical force directly to the electrode surface or to contaminants bridging the inter-electrode gap. The emitter cleaner may be fabricated from abrasive or wear-resistant materials such as alumina, ceramic composites, or other high-dielectric materials. These materials are selected for resistance to mechanical wear and stability under high-voltage electric fields. In some embodiments, the material is configured to resist electrical breakdown at operating voltage. In some embodiments, the geometry of the emitter cleaner is configured to minimize or at least reduce electrical arcing and reduce surface electrical creep, thereby preserving long-term reliability and the charged particle emission system.

For collector electrode cleaning, a collector electrode cleaner is provided to remove dust, fibrous contaminants, or other airborne particulates from collector electrode surfaces or the inter-electrode gap. The emitter cleaner may be fabricated from materials including (but not limited to) alumina, ceramic materials, and high-dielectric composites, chosen for durability and dielectric strength. In some embodiments, the material is configured to resist dielectric breakdown under system voltage. The geometry of the collector cleaner is configured to reduce arcing propensity and suppress electrical creep effects across the electrode surfaces.

In some embodiments, the emitter cleaner may be moved longitudinally relative to the emitter electrode. In some embodiments, longitudinal movement may be achieved through direct coupling to a mechanically actuated element. In some embodiments, movement may be induced via electromagnetic coils. The emitter cleaner in this case may be ferromagnetic and responds to applied magnetic field. In some embodiments, the emitter electrode may be translated through a fixed scraper by bi-directional spooling at device ends. To initiate cleaning of emitter and collector electrodes, the mode switch is set to cleaning mode, which engages the buck-converter stage to generate a low-voltage, high current power supply in order to drive the electromagnetic coils. The coil driver circuit is activated to create a magnetic field that induces movement to left and right in order to completely traverse the emitter and collector electrodes. A sensing element can confirm the position of the emitter and collector scraper slider assembly when complete.

In some embodiments, acoustic phased arrays are configured to direct focused acoustic waves onto the emitter electrode. The focal point of acoustic energy may be swept along the emitter length to form a translating cleaning wave, providing enhanced debris removal.

In some embodiments, vibrational and acoustic energy may be imparted by actuating a spring-loaded emitter terminal. Suitable actuation devices include (but are not limited to) piezoelectric transducers, electromagnetic solenoids, electromagnetic coils, voice coils, or vibrator assemblies.

In some embodiments, an integrated cleaning actuator may couple emitter and collector cleaning through a magnetically actuated slider. The slider may incorporate a magnet array arranged with alternating field orientations to produce high magnetic field gradients. The slider may be driven longitudinally by electromagnetic coils fabricated as traces on a printed circuit board (PCB). In some embodiments, multiphase signals may be applied to the coil traces generate controlled motion.

In some embodiments, interdigitated coil traces may be configured to support multiple phases. The PCB copper layers may be separated by prepreg dielectric material or covered by high-dielectric insulation to limit leakage current (e.g., below 10 μA) or suppress an induced voltage when high voltage is applied to the emitter electrode.

In some embodiments, for coupling between emitter and collector cleaners, a forked structure on the slider may mechanically engage the emitter bead during cleaning cycles, allowing coupled motion while maintaining separation during idle states. In some embodiments, open-circuit separation during idle is configured to reduce arcing risk between electrodes. In some embodiments, the emitter bead and collector slider remain structurally independent to isolate emitter electrode from transverse stresses.

14 FIG.A 1402 1404 1402 1406 1408 1404 1402 1404 1410 illustrates an embodiment of a coupled emitter-collector cleaning actuator in which a fork-like collector sliderA mechanically overlaps an emitter bead cleanerA. Note, only half of the bead is depicted for illustration purposes so as to reveal the underlying emitter electrode. The sliderA incorporates embedded magnetsA and is driven longitudinally by electromagnetic coils located on a printed circuit boardA. As the slider translates, the fork-like projection engages the emitter beadA, causing it to move along the emitter electrode. In the idle state, the sliderA and beadA remain separated to reduce arcing propensity and mechanical stress transfer to the emitter wireA.

In some embodiments, a magnet array may be implemented. The array may include multiple magnets oriented in alternating north-up and north down configurations, thereby maximizing interaction with multiphase coil fields. In some embodiments, dimensions may include magnets of 1 mm width and 0.5 mm height, with length adjustable to vary force magnitude. Example configuration include up-down-up or down-up-down sequences, with the number of magnets, spacing between magnets, and specific orientation, and distance to underlying coil traces determining total driving force.

In some embodiments, the geometry of the electromagnetic coil traces relative to the magnet array is optimized to improve cleaning performance. The relative angle between the coil traces and the magnets affects the balance of longitudinal (x-direction) and transverse (y-and z-direction) forces applied to the slider. By adjusting this coil-to-magnet angle, the actuation mechanism can be tuned to maximize forward translation while minimizing undesirable lateral loading on the collector slider or emitter bead.

In some embodiments, the coil pitch is selected to match or complement the magnet pitch of the embedded magnet array. For example, when the magnet array is configured in a repeating N-S-N orientation, the copper trace coils may be patterned with a corresponding periodicity to maximize interaction efficiency. Proper alignment of coil pitch to magnet pitch enhances the net longitudinal driving force and suppresses off-axis motion.

In some embodiments, the coplanarity of the coil traces and the embedded magnets is controlled within tight tolerances to ensure consistent electromagnetic coupling. Variations in coplanarity can degrade efficiency and increase the likelihood of undesired vertical forces. Accordingly, the coil angle, coil pitch, and coil-magnet coplanarity are treated as critical-to-quality design parameters for the actuation system.

14 FIG.B 1406 1402 1404 1402 1404 1402 1404 1410 illustrates an embodiment of an emitter electrode scraper and a collector slider including multiple magnets. Again, only half of the scraper is depicted for illustration purposes so as to reveal the underlying emitter wire. In this configuration, the collector slider includes a series of magnetsB aligned in alternating polarity to interact with multiphase coil traces on a PCB 1408B. The slider portionB mechanically couples with the emitter scraperB such that movement of the sliderB drives coordinated movement of the emitter scraperB. The arrangement maintains structural independence between the sliderB and scraperB, thereby isolating the emitter wireB from non-longitudinal stresses while still enabling synchronized cleaning actuation.

14 FIG.C 1404 1404 1404 1402 illustrates a perspective view of an emitter scraperC mounted in a ceramic support structure. In this view, a whole beadC is shown. The scraperC is aligned with the emitter wire and positioned within a collector slider housingC. This configuration demonstrates the bead includes recessed ends configured to minimize high tangential electric fields at its end surfaces, thereby suppressing arcing under high-voltage operation.

14 FIG.D illustrates the same bead and slider structure in the assembled state with the emitter wire in place. The collector slider is positioned such that the emitter bead overlaps with the slider, providing field shielding and mechanical coupling. This overlap ensures that bead motion occurs in tandem with slider motion, while maintaining electrical separation when idle.

14 FIG.E 1404 1404 illustrates a cross-sectional view of beadE showing the internal bore through which the emitter wire extends. As illustrated, at each end, the beadD incorporates recessed ceramic holes and rounded ends that reduce tangential electric field concentration near the collector region. The section view reveals the tapered passage and seating profile of the bead, which are otherwise hidden in perspective views. This depiction clarifies the alignment of the emitter wire relative to the bead's internal geometry. These features suppress arc initiation in regions of close electrode proximity.

14 FIG.F 1404 illustrates a cross-sectional view of beadF in relation to emitter wire 1410F. The section shows the bead positioned around the emitter wire, with the wire extending through the central bore of the bead to provide support and alignment.

14 FIG.G illustrates an example bead incorporating a twisting helical inner hole. The helix maximizes wire contact during a cleaning cycle by rotating the engagement surface around the wire circumference. The helix can extend within the bead body or extend outside the bead radius as a slit. Because the helix confines the electric field, no preferential corona or breakdown path to the collector slider is formed.

14 FIG.H shows an experimental image of the bead-wire region under energized conditions. The absence of corona discharge confirms that the open-helix bead geometry can be implemented without preferential arcing, while also enabling simplified assembly by twisting the bead onto the emitter wire.

14 14 FIGS.I andJ 14 FIG.I 14 FIG.J 1 6 2 6 3 4 2 4 illustrate simulated tangential electric field (TEF) distributions around different bead terminus geometries. In, the planar bead terminus [] adjacent to the emitter wire [] exhibits TEF exceeding 2×10{circumflex over ( )}6 V/m, leading to observed arcing at 4.8 kV. In, a 0.4 mm radius×0.326 mm depth cutout is introduced at the bead terminus, removing the material responsible for arcing. The inner surface [] remains at high field due to proximity to the wire [], but no arcing occurs since the TEF is perpendicular to the cup wall []. Outer wall [] exhibits reduced TEF due to increased separation. Both inner [] and outer [] surfaces are curved to reduce the integral of the tangential field component, thereby reducing arc propensity.

14 FIG.K illustrates a cross-section view showing electric field vectors emanating from the emitter wire. The field is suppressed inside the bead and slider due to the high dielectric constant of those structures, further reducing arc likelihood in narrow gap.

14 FIG.L 1412 1402 1405 1412 1414 1402 1414 illustrates an example collector slider chassisL in accordance with one or more embodiments. The sliderL includes slider feetL, which limit the approach distance to the isolator region (on the right), while chassisL include a stopL that prevents excessive travel of the collector sliderL. Such a mechanical stopL protects against arcing by maintaining minimum separation distances between high-voltage structures.

14 14 FIGS.M-N illustrate perspective views of a collector slider chassis in accordance with one or more embodiments. The chassis is shown from an angle that reveals the slider coupling arms and central support region in which embedded magnets or other actuation features can be mounted. The chassis includes mounting features for attaching the collector contacting elements and mechanical interfaces for engaging with an emitter cleaning bead or scraper during coupled movement cycles.

14 FIG.O illustrates an example embodiment of emitter cleaning bead in accordance with one or more embodiments. The bead includes end flanges for dielectric spacing and a central coupling feature for engagement with the collector slider chassis. The view depicts a “gate” location used in molding or manufacturing the bead, positioned away from high-field operational zones to preserve dielectric integrity and surface finish.

14 FIG.P illustrates a cross-sectional view of the emitter cleaning bead taken along line BB-BB, together with an end-profile. The section view reveals the internal bore of the bead through which the emitter wire passes and highlights the location of the parting line where two molding tools meet.

14 FIG.Q illustrates an assembled view showing the mechanical coupling configured to engage the collector slider chassis. The coupling feature allows the bead to be driven longitudinally along the emitter wire via coordinated motion of the collector slider chassis under electromagnetic or mechanical actuation, while maintaining electrical isolation between the emitter and collector components.

200 305 405 420 505 605 705 210 310 810 810 830 910 205 205 205 a b a b Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to an electrode cleaning apparatus for an EHD air mover device, e.g., the EHD air mover device. The electrode cleaning apparatus may include a cleaning scraper made of one or more non-conductive materials, e.g., the emitter electrode cleaner, the emitter electrode cleaner, the emitter electrode cleaner, the emitter electrode cleaner, the emitter electrode cleaner, or the emitter electrode cleaner. The cleaning scraper may be placed on an emitter electrode of the EHD air mover device, e.g., the emitter electrode. The cleaning scraper may have a hole (e.g., the hole) through which a wire of the emitter electrode passes so that the cleaning bead is free to slide longitudinally along the wire of the emitter electrode. The electrode cleaning apparatus may further include a cleaning slider made of at least one non-conductive material, e.g., the cleaning sliders,, the cleaning slider apparatus, or the cleaning slider apparatus. The cleaning slider may be placed around a pair of plates (e.g., the plates,) of a collector electrode of the EHD air mover device (e.g., the collector electrode) so that the cleaning slider is free to slide longitudinally along the pair of plates of the collector electrode.

The cleaning scraper may move along a length of the emitter electrode when an electronic device into which the EHD air mover device is integrated moves, vibrates, rotates, or accelerates. Similarly, the cleaning slider may slide longitudinally along the pair of plates of the collector electrode when the electronic device into which the EHD air mover device is integrated moves, vibrates, rotates, or accelerates.

610 710 An outer surface of the cleaning bead may include a slit (e.g., the slit) for placing the wire of the emitter electrode through the slit and twisting the cleaning bead onto the wire of the emitter electrode. The cleaning bead may further include one or more magnetic materials that react to an external magnetic structure (e.g., the series of electromagnets) creating a magnetic field that causes a movement of the cleaning bead along a length of the wire of the emitter electrode. The external magnetic structure may include traces of wire on a printed circuit board (PCB) of a housing of the EHD air mover device.

810 830 910 805 810 830 910 805 840 815 835 920 815 835 920 a a a a b b b b a a a b b b The cleaning slider may include a first cleaning slider (e.g., the cleaning slider, the cleaning slider, or the cleaning slider) placed around a first plate of the pair of plates (e.g., the plate) and a second cleaning slider (e.g., the cleaning slider, the cleaning slider, or the cleaning slider) placed around a second plate of the pair of plates (e.g., the plate). The cleaning slider may further include a connector (e.g., the member) that connects the first cleaning slider with the second cleaning slider so that the first cleaning slider and the second cleaning slider move simultaneously along lengths of the first plate and the second plate. The cleaning slider may further include one or more first bearings (e.g., the bearings, the bearings, or the bearing) on the first cleaning slider and one or more second bearings (e.g., the bearings, the bearings, or the bearing) on the second cleaning slider.

The cleaning apparatus may further include a second connector that connects the cleaning scraper to the cleaning slider so that the cleaning bead moves along a length of the emitter electrode simultaneously with movements of the first cleaning slider and the second cleaning slider along the lengths of the first plate and the second plate of the collector electrode.

1015 At least one of a movement of the cleaning scraper longitudinally along the emitter electrode or a movement of the cleaning slider longitudinally along the pair of plates of the collector electrode may be initiated by a triggering mechanism (e.g., the triggering mechanism subsystem) based on sensor data collected via one or more sensors placed on the EHD air mover device, the sensor data including information about one or more electrical parameters of the EHD air mover device.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been presented for illustration; it is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the patent rights to the precise forms disclosed. Persons skilled in the relevant art can appreciate that many modifications and variations are possible considering the above disclosure.

Some portions of this description describe the embodiments in terms of algorithms and symbolic representations of operations on information. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are commonly used by those skilled in the data processing arts to convey the substance of their work effectively to others skilled in the art. These operations, while described functionally, computationally, or logically, are understood to be implemented by computer programs or equivalent electrical circuits, microcode, or the like. Furthermore, it has also proven convenient at times, to refer to these arrangements of operations as modules, without loss of generality. The described operations and their associated modules may be embodied in software, firmware, hardware, or any combinations thereof.

Any of the steps, operations, or processes described herein may be performed or implemented with one or more hardware or software modules, alone or in combination with other devices. In one embodiment, a software module is implemented with a computer program product comprising a computer-readable medium containing computer program code, which can be executed by a computer processor for performing any or all the steps, operations, or processes described.

Embodiments may also relate to an apparatus for performing the operations herein. This apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes, and/or it may comprise a general-purpose computing device selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. Such a computer program may be stored in a non-transitory, tangible computer readable storage medium, or any type of media suitable for storing electronic instructions, which may be coupled to a computer system bus. Furthermore, any computing systems referred to in the specification may include a single processor or may be architectures employing multiple processor designs for increased computing capability.

Embodiments may also relate to a product that is produced by a computing process described herein. Such a product may comprise information resulting from a computing process, where the information is stored on a non-transitory, tangible computer readable storage medium and may include any embodiment of a computer program product or other data combination described herein.

The language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to narrow the inventive subject matter. It is therefore intended that the scope of the patent rights be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based hereon.

As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive “or” and not to an exclusive “or. ” For example, a condition “A or B” is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present); A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present); and both A and B are true (or present). Similarly, a condition “A, B, or C” is satisfied by any combination of A, B, and C being true (or present). As a non-limiting example, the condition “A, B, or C” is satisfied when A and B are true (or present) and C is false (or not present). Similarly, as another non-limiting example, the condition “A, B, or C” is satisfied when A is true (or present) and B and C are false (or not present).